Victoria Falls canoeing company operates and runs canoeing t

If you’re dreaming of floating peacefully along Zimbabwe’s mighty Zambezi River while spotting elephants, hippos, and crocodiles from the comfort of an inflatable canoe, this tour promises just that. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve paddled through this scenic waterway, so you can get a clear picture of what to expect.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, it offers a unique blend of adventure and wildlife viewing from a very different perspective. Second, the all-inclusive nature — from breakfast to safety gear — makes it straightforward and stress-free. Lastly, the small group sizes ensure you don’t feel lost in the crowd, allowing for personal attention and genuine encounters.

However, a word of caution: this trip is not suitable for children under 7 or anyone with mobility issues or pregnancy. If you’re looking for a laid-back, family-friendly option or have mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit. But for active travelers craving an authentic, close-to-nature experience, it’s a fantastic choice.

This tour is ideal for those wanting to combine wildlife sightings with a splash of adventure, and who are comfortable with some physical activity. It’s perfect for travelers craving a memorable day out in the outdoors, with a touch of thrill and plenty of wildlife.

Key Points

Authentic Wildlife Viewing: Spot animals such as elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species right from the river.

Scenic and Relaxed: Paddle through beautiful channels and enjoy a peaceful breakfast on the riverbank.

All-Inclusive Experience: Breakfast, safety gear, and soft drinks are part of the package, making it very convenient.

Small Group Size: Limited to 12 people, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.

Flexible Booking: Keep your plans flexible with a pay-later option and full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Limited for Young Children & Certain Groups: Not suitable for children under 7 or those with mobility challenges, pregnant women, or over 80s.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Zambezi Canoeing Experience

Starting the Adventure: Early Morning Pickup and Briefing

The day kicks off bright and early between 07:00 am and 07:30 am. Travelers are picked up from their accommodations, which is convenient for those staying in Victoria Falls town. The journey begins with a brief safety talk and paddling demonstration — essential for those new to canoeing, but also a reassuring touch for seasoned paddlers. The guides, like “John,” a local with extensive knowledge of the river, are praised for their friendly demeanor and attentiveness. They often emphasize safety, making sure everyone feels comfortable before launching.

The Drive into Zambezi National Park

After the briefing, the drive takes you to the Zambezi National Park gate, where park fees are paid. The approximately one-hour drive through the park offers glimpses of the local fauna, from waterbuck and impalas to the occasional giraffe or zebra. Travelers have noted that animals are often seen along the roadside, which adds a surprise element even before reaching the river. The scenery is lush, with the river winding through the bush, setting the stage for what’s to come.

Launching into the Scenic Channels

Upon arrival at the launch site, guests are greeted with tea, coffee, and a continental breakfast. The breakfast setup is straightforward but appreciated, with fresh bread, fruit, and hot drinks fueling you for the paddle ahead. The guides conduct a safety talk, along with a demonstration on how to paddle inflatable canoes — a surprisingly stable and manageable craft, even for beginners. Many reviewers have highlighted that the instructions are clear, making paddling accessible to most.

More Great Tours Nearby

Paddling and Wildlife Encounters

The core of the experience is paddling through serene channels and scenic waterways. The guides navigate you past tall reeds and water lilies, where wildlife often makes surprise appearances. Waterbucks, buffalo, and even elephants are seen bathing or grazing nearby, sometimes just a few meters from the canoe. Hippos and crocodiles are common sightings, often lounging in the shallows, adding an element of thrill.

One reviewer mentioned, “We saw a family of elephants crossing the riverbank while we floated by — it felt surreal.” Birdlife is abundant, with kingfishers, bee-eaters, and fish eagles providing a soundtrack of chirps and calls. Keep your binoculars handy to make the most of these moments; the guides often point out interesting species and share facts about their habits.

Lunch on the Riverbank

Midway through, the group pauses for lunch on the riverbank. The meal includes salads, rice, pasta, chicken or beef, and fresh bread, complemented by soft drinks and beers — all part of the package. The setting is peaceful, with the sound of water and distant bird calls. Many travelers find this break a perfect chance to relax and soak in the surroundings while refueling.

Return Journey and Reflection

After lunch, the paddling continues for a short while before packing up. The guides ensure the group is comfortable and confident with the paddle back to the launch site. The drive back to Victoria Falls departs around 14:00, giving you a full day of adventure without feeling rushed.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package includes all necessary safety gear, the breakfast, soft drinks, and beers. The park and river usage fees are not included, so it’s worth factoring those into your budget. Personal items like sunglasses, sun hats, camera equipment, and personal medications are recommended to bring along, as well as quick-dry clothing suitable for paddling.

Authenticity and Extra Tips

Travelers have appreciated the small group size, which creates a more personal, less touristy atmosphere. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing local stories and wildlife insights that enrich the experience. A tip from one reviewer: “Don’t forget your binoculars — I wish I had brought mine to get closer to the birds.”

Price and Value

At $180 per person, this tour offers a good value considering the inclusions, the expertise of the guides, and the unforgettable wildlife encounters. The experience balances adventure, relaxation, and nature observation, making it worth the price for those seeking a day in the wild.

Practical Considerations

• Age limit: Minimum of 12 years old, with no maximum age, but sound judgment is advised.
• Physical fitness: You don’t need previous canoeing experience, but you should be reasonably fit and healthy.
• What to bring: Your passport, sunglasses, sun hat, binoculars, personal medication, and quick-dry clothing.
• Cancellation policy: Fully refundable if canceled 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy being outdoors, wildlife lovers eager for close encounters, and those comfortable with light physical activity. It’s particularly appealing if you want an authentic, small-group experience with the chance to see wildlife from a unique vantage point — all set in a beautiful river environment. It’s perfect for those who crave adventure but also enjoy peaceful moments in nature.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for children aged 7 and above. The minimum age for this canoeing safari is 12, making it suitable for older kids and teenagers.

Do I need previous canoeing experience?
No, previous experience isn’t required. The guides provide a safety demonstration and paddling instructions, making it accessible for beginners.

What should I wear?
Quick-dry clothing is recommended, along with sun protection such as hats and sunglasses. It’s also wise to bring personal medication and possibly a waterproof storage device for valuables.

Are park fees included?
No, park entrance fees and river usage fees are not included in the tour price. Be prepared for these additional costs.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts roughly from 07:00 am to 14:00 pm, including pickup, paddling, lunch, and return to Victoria Falls.

Can I see large predators like lions or leopards?
While animals like lions are rarely seen because the tour is on the river, you might encounter buffalo, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a minimum of two and a maximum of 12 people, ensuring a more intimate and personalized adventure.

In the end, this canoe safari offers a balanced mix of adventure, wildlife, and relaxing scenery, making it a memorable day for those who enjoy being close to nature without the need for previous experience. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a different way to experience the Zambezi River, this tour delivers on authenticity and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: